Property owners must keep their premises safe for guests, residents, and visitors by law. When
this duty is disregarded, a slip-and-fall accident may occur. In a slip-and-fall accident, an
individual gets injured due to slipping on a slick or hazardous surface.
Understanding the top causes of slip and fall accidents can help property owners take proactive
measures to prevent such injuries and avoid potential legal cases. That said, if you do find
yourself involved in a slip-and-fall lawsuit, an experienced Los Angeles injury attorney is ready
to defend you and fight for the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Common Causes of Slip and Falls
Slip and fall accidents can occur due to various reasons, often stemming from negligence on the part of the landlord or property owner. Some common causes of slip and fall accidents include:
- Wet or slippery surfaces. Spills, rain, snow, or ice can create hazardous walking conditions. If a property owner is aware of a spill and fails to clean it up in a timely manner, they can be held liable for a guest or visitor’s injury.
- Poor lighting. Inadequate lighting can make it difficult for people to see potential hazards, increasing the risk of tripping or slipping. Buildings in California have specific safety requirements that must be followed to ensure the safety of guests and residents.
- Uneven floors. It is easy for people to lose their balance when encountering cracked, broken, or uneven flooring, such as loose tiles, uneven sidewalks, or potholes in a parking lot.
- Cluttered walkways. Objects left in walkways or hallways, such as boxes or cables, pose severe tripping hazards. The landlord or property owner has a legal duty to keep these walkways clear and free of harmful objects.
- Absence of handrails. Staircases and ramps are required to have handrails on both sides to prevent falls. Failing to install these can result in a slip-and-fall lawsuit if an injury occurs.
Where Slip and Falls Typically Occur
Slip and fall accidents can occur in any private or public place, including:
- Grocery stores
- Parks
- Public roads and sidewalks
- Swimming pools
- Stadiums
- Amusement parks
- Restaurants
- Private homes
Whether you slip and fall down a stairway or slip on an obvious hazard, there are plenty of places to get injured and many types of slip-and-fall injuries. The legal process depends on the severity of the injury, the type of accident, and where it occurred. An experienced Los Angeles slip and fall attorney can guide you through this process, ensuring that your rights are protected.
How To Avoid Slip and Fall Accidents
Whether you are a property owner, landlord, resident, or guest, there are a few preventative measures to take to avoid slip and fall accidents.
For property owners and landlords:
- Put up visible warning signs when a hazard, such as a leak or freshly mopped floor, arises.
- Clean spills and fix defects as soon as you become aware of them.
- Address weather conditions, especially during the winter.
- Conduct routine maintenance and inspections to prevent accidents.
For residents, visitors, and guests:
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions, such as texting, while walking.
- Notify the property owner or landlord as soon as possible if a hazard arises.
By understanding the top causes of slip and fall accidents and taking proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of such incidents and ensure a safer environment for everyone.
Contact a Slip and Fall Accident Attorney Today
We advise seeking medical attention as soon as possible after a slip and fall accident. Once you address your health and safety, contact a slip and fall accident lawyer or personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles for guidance on how to navigate the legal process. Our experienced Los Angeles injury attorneys will fight on your behalf to help you secure the compensation you deserve.
John J. Perlstein, one of the best slip and fall lawyers (Los Angeles), has over 25 years of experience securing fair and just outcomes in personal injury and wrongful death cases.
Reach us at (213) 583-5786 or fill out the form on our website to schedule a free consultation with a slip-and-fall attorney (Irvine). This consultation will allow us to determine how we can secure the best possible outcome for your slip and fall case.